Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders

In early 2023, Principal Heather Mull Miller of William H. Hunter School (2020 Neubauer Fellow, Cohort 6) noticed a troubling trend: despite strong performance in K-5, her 6-8th graders showed a significant drop in academic success. To lift up her students, Miller drew from the skills strengthened in her #NeubauerFellowship to develop a multi-pronged approach combining student-driven incentives and community-building tailored to middle schoolers. "I didn’t get more resources. I didn’t get a grant. I just took what I had and reworked it to make sure what I already had served students in a more meaningful and impactful way." Learn about how Heather built her own middle school in our interview at https://lnkd.in/egAArqZJ

John Bartram High School, led by Principal Brian Johnson (#NeubauerFellow 2016, Cohort 6)?just received a visit and generous donation of $10,000 from a famous alumnus: comedian and actor Michael Blackson! Principal Johnson said Blackson’s visit was a great honor, and noted his example shows Bartram High’s students that “anything is possible.” Blackson’s donation is an amazing example of how school communities, including alumni, work to lift up Philadelphia students. Congratulations Principal Johnson and the Bartram High family! Learn more about Michael Blackson’s donation to Bartram High at: https://lnkd.in/en8qPQHG ?

WHYY featured Fox Chase Farm, led by #NeubauerFellow Dr. Mandy Manna (2024 Neubauer Fellow, Cohort 8), in a recent article highlighting its support for student agricultural entrepreneurship. The farm, open to #PhillySchools students and those from surrounding counties, is expanding its focus beyond just teaching students about plants and animals.? Mandy and Fox Chase have given students the opportunity to open three food stands using products from the farm, with five more planned. An apprenticeship program centering on controlled environmental agriculture and offering certifications in areas like organic food growing is also launching soon. PASL wishes our Legendary 8 Fellow Mandy and Fox Chase success with these new initiatives!? Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e9tsrcy4?

Through developing leadership skills, collaborative peer-to-peer learning, and ongoing job-embedded support, our partnership with Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders helped leaders make data-informed shifts to their practices. Watch as leaders from PASL and ANet share their experience during this unique partnership. Read more about our work here: https://hubs.ly/Q03d6S8b0

As the week wraps up, we're reflecting on our 2024 #NeubauerFellows recent trip to Washington, D.C. With sessions lead by Dr. Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz and Dr. Angel Acosta, along with visits to the Smithsonian Institute’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, it was a weekend of deep learning, reflection, and community. Learn more and join us as we tagged along at: https://lnkd.in/gSvb4Sui #PASL #SchoolPrincipals #EducationLeaders #PhiladelphiaSchools #StudentSuccess?

Did you catch our school tour and interview with William H. Hunter School Principal Heather Mull Miller? Learn about this #NeubauerFellow's creative approach to improving 6th - 8th grade student outcomes in our video profile and interview below or on our website at: https://lnkd.in/egAArqZJ

Grateful for the opportunity to lead a powerful session on self-care, community, and radical leadership through storytelling for school and systems leaders of color with Latanya Simmons, Aliya Catanch - Bradley and Yolanda Sealey-Ruiz. Thanks to Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders for this opportunity. #Leadership #SelfCare #RadicalLeadership #Community #EducationMatters

Today, I had the privilege of participating in the Neubauer Leaders of Color Retreat, where I was able to take a step back for a day of reflection and self-care. As leaders in education, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily hustle, but today reminded me of the importance of investing in ourselves so we can lead more effectively.?????? The work we do as principals is crucial, and it matters—especially when we take the time to nourish our own growth and well-being. Grateful for the opportunity to learn, reflect, and connect with fellow leaders who are equally committed to making an impact. Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders #LeadersOfColor #SelfCareInLeadership #PrincipalsMatter #ReflectAndGrow #EducationalLeadership #NeubauerRetreat #EmpathyInLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment

Raymond Fields, Jr. (2018 Neubauer Fellow, Cohort 4)?recently started his role as Deputy Chief of Leadership Initiatives at Mastery Schools.?This is a return to Mastery for Ray; he served as principal from 2013 to 2021, first as founding principal of Gratz Prep Middle School and later as founding principal of Mastery Prep Elementary Charter School. Most recently, Ray served as Chief Talent Officer at the Pennsylvania Department of Education. Please join us in wishing Ray congratulations in his new role!

Amazing news! Cohort 7 (2022) #NeubauerFellow Mary E. Libby, Ed.D. recently started as Deputy Chief of Diverse Learners at the School District of Philadelphia. Before this, Mary served as assistant superintendent of the Governor Mifflin School District and as principal of Marian Anderson Neighborhood Academy. Join us in congratulating Mary!?